Tungsten copper

Tungsten-Copper (W-Cu) is a composite material consisting of a combination of tungsten and copper, aimed at utilizing the unique properties of both metals. Production begins with the pressing and sintering of tungsten powder. The remaining pores in the tungsten are then filled with liquid copper, or liquid phase sintering is used. By varying grain size and process parameters, the ratio between tungsten and copper can be adjusted for specific applications.

This hybrid structure results in a material that combines the hardness, wear resistance, and high melting point of tungsten with the excellent electrical and thermal conductivity of copper.

Properties of Tungsten-Copper

Tungsten-copper offers a unique combination of mechanical strength, thermal stability, and conductivity. Thanks to tungsten’s high density and melting point, the material remains stable under extreme temperatures, while copper ensures efficient heat and electrical conduction. The composition is adjustable, allowing for the optimization of specific properties such as hardness, conductivity, or thermal expansion to meet precise needs.

Additionally, W-Cu is highly resistant to spark erosion and thermal shocks, making it a robust choice in environments with fluctuating loads or high stresses.

Applications of Tungsten-Copper

Tungsten-copper is widely used in industries that require a combination of strength, heat resistance, and conductivity. In the electrical industry, the material is used for EDM electrodes, electrical contacts, and high-voltage circuit breakers. Thanks to its thermal conductivity and wear resistance, it is also suitable for heat sinks, welding electrodes, and heat shields.

In the aerospace, defense, and automotive sectors, W-Cu is used in balancing weights, radiation shielding, and other functional components where mechanical stability under thermal stress is crucial.

Wolfraam koper specificaties

	50/50	60/40	70/30	75/25	80/20	90/10
	Class A	Class B	Class C	Class D	Class E	–
Chemische Samenstelling
Koper (Cu)	50±2	40±2	30±2	25±2	20±2	10±2
Wolfraam (W)	Rest	Rest	Rest	Rest	Rest	Rest
Additieven(max. %)	1	1	1	1	1	1

Fysische Eigenschappen
Dichtheid (g/cm3)	11,7	12,7	13,7	14,3	15,0	16,5
Elektrische Geleidbaarheid (% IACS)*	56-64	49-57	44-52	41-48	38-45	<30
Uitzettingscoëfficiënt [10−6 K-1]	13,0	11,9	10,3	9,5	8,8	<7,5
Thermische Geleidbaarheid (W/m * K-1]	–	–	200	190	180	170

Mechanische Eigenschappen
Hardheid [HRB]	69-83	77-90	85-98	89-102	94-106	–
E-modules [GPa]	–	–	220	260	280	290
Treksterkte	344-413	379-448	516-585	585-654	620-689	700